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Rolling with the Crimson Tide

What began as a conversion of a 1990s kitchen to a more functional, modern look turned into a good-natured rivalry when designer Rebecca Larys, an Auburn University graduate, took on a project with a University of Alabama graduate.

After removing a misplaced island, Larys designed an additional corner prep area that included a peninsula and two Craftsman-style columns.

“My favorite part of the design was the addition of the wood columns that not only re-emphasized the craftsman theme but provided the ‘stop’ for your eyes when looking out to the back garden,” said Larys. “They let your eye focus and stay in the kitchen.”

To help save on the budget, Larys kept most of the existing yellow cabinetry and brought in some customized cherry pieces to highlight the color.

The last-minute inclusion of the red range inspired Larys to bring in a red accent tile to help tie everything together.

Subtle hints, like this elephant art, recall the University of Alabama.

The window treatment also includes both crimson red and the elephant, which is the university’s mascot.

“Although I selectively used my client’s Alabama stemware, coffee mugs and cabinet hardware for the photo shoot, I was not beneath sneaking in some Auburn logos as well,” said Larys. “If you look closely at the pewter plate sitting on the wood bar top, you will see the Auburn logo on the stamp!”